Undoubtedly, you have heard news reports about the VA scandal that has sparked a wide-ranging investigation into Department of Veterans’ Affairs treatment of veterans seeking health care and benefits.

It’s a story of substandard care, scheduling nightmares and delayed life-saving medical procedures. And fear — with VA doctors, patients and many VA workers afraid to speak up for fear of reprisal. In fact, the scandal may not have come to light but for whistleblowers.

You can call the hotline, toll free, at 844-624-8387 or file a confidential report by sending an email to [email protected]

The state hotline connects to NCVA executive staff, who will forward tips to the appropriate federal authorities investigating the VA scandal.

The N.C. hotline was started because the state veterans agency received credible “specific allegations of misconduct at USVA medical facilities in North Carolina,” according to news reports.

“Our goal with the Vet Tip Hotline is to be constructive, systematic and transparent,” state Veterans Affairs Director Ilario said. “We are not looking for scapegoats but rather solutions to get our veterans the care they deserve.”

Two Durham VA Medical Center employees were put on leave in May for “inappropriate scheduling practices,” CNN reported.

In addition to the N.C. hotline, veterans can report wrongdoing to the VA’s Office of Inspector General by calling 800-488-8244 or sending an email to [email protected]